Delayed post-traumatic diaphragmatic rupture complicated by total hepato-thorax: A case report.

Authors :: Kastanakis M
Anyfantakis D
Kokkinos I
Petrakis G
Bobolakis E
Source :: International journal of surgery case reports [Int J Surg Case Rep] 2013; Vol. 4 (6), pp. 537-9. Date of Electronic Publication: 2013 Mar 29.
Publication Year :: 2013
Abstract: Introduction: Intra-thoracic herniation of abdominal organs following diaphragmatic rupture represents an unusual clinical occurrence that poses great diagnostic difficulty.<br />Presentation of Case: We report a rare case of delayed total hepatothorax caused by a right sided post-traumatic diaphragmatic rupture in a 67 year old male. Reduction of the liver in the abdominal cavity and repair of the diaphragm was feasible via a thoraco-abdominal approach. Postoperative chest radiography showed normal position of the right diaphragmatic border.<br />Discussion: Characteristics of right diaphragmatic rupture and subsequent complications are reviewed with the aim to reinforce physicians' awareness of this uncommon clinical condition in order to establish a timely diagnosis and reduce the mortality related burden.<br />Conclusion: Surgeons should consider this entity in the differential diagnosis of injured patients experiencing sudden respiratory distress during hospitalization as well as days or months after discharge.<br /> (Copyright © 2013 Surgical Associates Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

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